Florida Grapefruit Launches 100-Day Sales Campaign

Florida Department of Agriculture, Marketing Representative, Michael Ryshouwer, traveled to Korea, April 4-8 to launch in-store sales promotions in leading department and discount stores in Seoul. Last year, Florida grapefruit sales to Korea grew by 54 percent and exceeded $8.5 million. (KITA) This year, Korean consumers will have the opportunity to sample Florida grapefruit at Hyundai Department stores, Lotte Mart and E-Mart grocery stores. The United States maintains about 90 percent market share of the Korean grapefruit market. Grapefruit are currently assessed a 30 percent import duty but this tax will be phased out over a five-year period when the Korea-USA Free Trade Agreement is implemented.

American Hardwood featured in 2011 Seoul Living Design Fair, March 24-28

American Hardwood Export Council showcased a diverse style of studio furniture made from American hardwoods at 2011 Seoul Living Design Fair. The exhibition featured the work of renowned designer Ms. Han Jyung Hyun and was one of the most popular spots during the five-day event visited by more than 150,000 people. Ms. Han’s work included chairs and tables made from American hardwoods including red oak, ash, walnut and birch. Of special note was a sewing machine table made of ash and walnut which was featured in the Chosunilbo, the largest national daily in Korea. A noteworthy trend during this year’s show was a strong presence of solid wood furniture made from American hardwood.

A Visit to Nongshim-Kellogg facilities and Nongshim Instant Noodle factory in Ansung, Korea, March 18, 2011

On March 18, USDA Seoul and local cooperator representatives visited Nongshim-Kellogg facilities located in Ansung, Gyunggi-do, about 45 miles outside of Seoul. The cereal manufacturer uses a variety of U.S. ingredients, including wheat, rice and almonds. For example, 600 MT of U.S. almonds are used each year in a range of cereals. Nongshim-Kellogg also uses 960 metric tons of U.S. rice each year in its Special K and Coco Puff cereals, two of the company’s leading brands in Korea.

The group also toured the Nongshim instant noodle factory, which uses 6,000 metric tons of U.S. wheat each year. Nongshim is one of the world’s top ramen manufacturers and exports its noodles to more than 70 countries around the world and has factories in the United States, Japan and China. One of its most popular brands is “Shin Ramen,” which means spicy hot noodles.